by Bianca Garcia
My heart was beating fast, my hands were sweating, and I smelled like adobo. I glanced around the cozy space at Saus and saw my team whirring around: Trish was going over the floor plan and putting last minute touches on the dining tables, Leila was prepping garnishes behind the counter, Saima was heading down towards the kitchen with a determined look on her face, and Chef Roland was laser-focused on the food, carrying big pots filled with deliciousness. I grinned wide and welcomed the first guest. We were ready to rock and roll.
Clockwise from top left: Leila, Roland, Bianca, and Trish
© Bianca Garcia
The next few hours went by in a blur. We were fortunate to have sold out both seatings for the evening, and there was a general buzz of excitement in the packed restaurant that sustained throughout the night. Once the food started coming out, we heard plenty of “oohs,” “ahhs,” and “mmms.” The diners were happy and satisfied, and so were we. The Filipino Food Pop-Up Event by BOSFilipinos and The Milagros Project was a success! Below are a few pictures from the evening:
scallop kinilaw
© Matt Nagy
ilocos empanada
© Matt Nagy
chicken inasal steeam bun
© Matt Nagy
pork ribs adobo
© Matt Nagy
leche flan
© Cathy Buena
Chef Roland talking to diners
© Bianca Garcia
happy diners
© Bianca Garcia
the night's menu (hapunan means dinner in Filipino)
© Matt Nagy
dried mangoes and bananas
© Bianca Garcia
We are all grateful for this incredible experience. The months of preparations and meetings (filled with food, no complaints) were worth it, and we are proud of our very first eat-up. Extra special thanks to: Chef Roland of The Milagros Project for sharing his talent and letting Boston have a little taste of the Philippines via his tasting menu; Chin, Lucas, Tanya, Aimee, Renee, and the rest of the team at Saus for their help and participation; our friend Saima for rocking out with us that night; my hubby Matt for designing our menu and branding; and of course to our attendees, family, and friends for the support and encouragement.
MARAMING SALAMAT PO! THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
the team post-event
© Bianca Garcia